BSc (Hons) Brewing and Distilling (Heriot-Watt)

This course is aligned with BSc (Hons) Brewing and Distilling at Heriot-Watt University. The programme allows students to complete a 2-year HND Industrial Biotechnology at Forth Valley College’s Falkirk campus, then progress to year 3 of the degree at Heriot-Watt University. Students benefit from the teaching and facilities of the College and the University.

The 2-year HND Industrial Biotechnology course aims to support students to gain skills and knowledge in industrial biotechnology. The HND develops the study of biology, chemistry and process engineering in an industrial biotechnology context. Year 3 and Year 4 information is included in the Course Content section below. 

"The Heriot Watt University course, BSc (Hons) Brewing and Distilling, is designed to educate potential managers of the malting, brewing and distilling industries and to provide a full understanding of the science and technology of the processes involved from cereal farming to bottling and packaging. The programme has been developed in co-operation with senior representatives of the brewing, malting and distilling industries who are members of the Education Board of the International Centre for Brewing and Distilling. Graduates have detailed knowledge and understanding of science and technology, along with the practical skills to become leaders within the food and drink sector.’’ BSc (Hons) Brewing and Distilling, Edinburgh - Heriot-Watt University (hw.ac.uk)

Year 1 - HND Industrial Biotechnology

  • Microbiology
  • Biotechnology
  • Biochemistry 
  • General Chemistry
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Organic Chemistry 
  • Maths for science 1
  • Statistics for science 1 
  • Lab Skills
  • Graded Unit 1 

    Year 2 - HND Industrial Biotechnology
  • Base Catalysed Organometallic Chemistry
  • Maths for Science 2
  • Quality health and Safety
  • Animal Plant & Cell Culture
  • DNA & Genetics
  • Protein Structure & Function
  • Chemical Engineering Principles
  • Heat Transfer
  • Instrumental Techniques
  • Aromatic Chemistry
  • Cell Biology
  • Microbiological Techniques
  • Chemical Engineering Applied Physical Chemistry
  • Graded Unit 2

    Year 3 - BSc Brewing and Distilling (after progressing to Heriot-Watt University)

  • Specialist courses in Food and Beverage Process Technology and Biotechnology.

    Year 4 - BSc (Hons) Brewing and Distilling

    Focuses on particular aspects of the industry, including:
  • Cereal Technology
  • Yeast Biology and Fermentation
  • Beer Maturation
  • Distillation
  • Quality
  • Packaging Technology
  • Commercial Aspects of Brewing and Distilling

An independent research project allows students to apply their knowledge and skills gained throughout the programme.
The University has a pilot plant brewery and distillery, which is used for teaching the practical aspects of the subject through project work.

  • Food and Drink Industry Career
  • Chemicals or Life Science Industry Career

One of the following:

  • Two Highers at grade C or above (which should include Biology, Chemistry or Maths)
  • Successful completion of a relevant access course or an appropriate group of National Qualification units
  • Applicants who do not meet this criteria, but have relevant experience or alternative qualifications, will be considered

    Additional Requirements:
  • Please note that selection will be made via a successful interview and group task

Please visit Heriot-Watt’s course webpage for more information about the course at years 3 and 4 - BSc (Hons) Brewing and Distilling, Edinburgh - Heriot-Watt University (hw.ac.uk)

You may also want to consider other routes to degree study from HND Industrial Biotechnology, please visit this webpage for more information: HND Industrial Biotechnology

Location

Falkirk Campus

Attendance

Full-Time

Start date

21 August 2023

End date

07 June 2024

SCQF Level

Level 8